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Credit for Prior Learning

Many students who participate in learning experiences outside the classroom wish to
earn college credit for their work. Columbia College offers a number of ways students
may earn such credit. CLEP tests, ACE credit and course test-outs are the preferred
means because they require
a theory-base for awarding credit, have national norms/criteria or both. If none
of the above credit-awarding methods are an option, Columbia College awards credit
for prior learning.

Before applying for credit for prior learning (CPL) credits, students must have completed 12 hours of Columbia
College credit. Students also must have completed ENGL 111 and ENGL 112 or their
equivalent with a grade of C or better. These credits, if taken at Columbia
College, may be included in the 12-hour requirement.

Credit Award

Columbia College courses that offer CPL credit are generally applicable to
degree requirements. A maximum of 15 credits of prior learning can be awarded.
CPL is not awarded where college credit in a similar course has
been earned. CPL credit does not count toward Columbia College residency.

Fields in which CPL is available:

Accounting

Art

Biology

Computer Science

Criminal Justice

Education

Finance

Management

Marketing

Standards for Quality

CPL is evaluated using the following criteria:

It has general applicability outside the specific situation in which it was acquired;

It articulates theories, principles and general techniques;

It has both a theoretical and practical understanding of the subject area;

It may be assessed by a faculty expert;

It is of college-level quality as determined by the faculty expert;

It meets specific course objectives or competencies and has a relationship to degree aspirations or educational goals;

The knowledge or skill represented as learning is current with that expected in the classroom/employment situation; and

The level of confidence equals or exceeds what would normally be considered a C level of performance in the classroom.

Portfolio Assessment

Students seeking CPL must submit a portfolio of relevant information that
describes the learning acquired in a specific course area. Portfolio contents
are described thoroughly in the document linked below.
An evaluation assessment fee of $75 per credit hour is required
for each course submitted for review, payable upon submission of the portfolio.